The Best Space-Saving Dish Racks

Buying Guide for Space-Saving Dish Racks

Why buy a space-saving dish rack?

Dishes and utensils can take up a lot of valuable counter space while drying. That’s where a space-saving dish rack can come in handy. Instead of placing your recently washed dishware next to the sink or on a towel on the countertop, these racks can often fit over the sink and give you a temporary spot to store your dishware and utensils. Some models even double as a permanent storage spot and a drying rack.

What should you consider in a space-saving dish rack?

• Type: Racks, caddies, and tiered shelf-like models are the three main options. All three are generally made of rustproof metal like stainless steel and silicone or rubber. Roll-out racks are simple and compact. They stretch directly over the top of the sink and can be easily removed or inserted as needed. Caddies are similar, though they have raised sides and are thus deeper and cradle your dishware. They can stretch directly over the sink like racks or rest on your countertop. Tiered, shelf-like models are more permanent than the other two. Some are designed to prop up over a sink, while others may be mounted to a wall.
• Size: When buying a space-saving dish rack, you’ll want to consider its size. Your new rack won’t do you much good if it doesn’t save space or fit in your kitchen. Also, consider how many dishes you want your new rack to be able to hold. And if you’re buying a countertop caddy or shelf-like model, consider how many tiers you want. Most will have between one and three tiers as options.
• Adjustability: There are plenty of adjustable dish racks, especially ones designed to be temporary instead of fixed. They can roll up, collapse, extend and shrink, or otherwise adjust to your sink or countertop size. Even the more permanent, shelf-like options can sometimes be adjusted to a different length or height when installed. Some allow you to add or remove tiers to fit your dishes perfectly.

How should you properly clean and sanitize your space-saving dish rack?

Although your dishes may be clean, your dish rack may come into contact with things that aren’t. It’s essential to clean your dish rack consistently after two to three uses. Depending on the material, some may be dishwasher safe; however, you’ll want to wipe it down between uses to prevent mildew from forming. You can add white vinegar for good measure as well. If it isn’t dishwasher safe, hot water and soap will do the trick, and then wipe it down with a clean towel.

Our Picks for the Best Space-Saving Dish Racks

Pros: One of the best things about this dish rack is that it’s expandable. If you want to add more dishes, you can easily make extra space. As for the compartments, these include a disk rack, a bowl rack, a knife holder, a basket for dish soap and sponges, a utensil holder, a cutting board slot, spots to hang wine glasses and cups, and seven utility hooks. These are removable, so it’s customizable to suit your needs. It’s also sturdy since it’s made with stainless steel, so you can be sure it won’t break easily.

Cons: This model may be challenging to assemble.

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a space-saving dish rack to fit right over your sink, this may be an excellent option. It’s attractive and functional and won’t look like an eyesore in your kitchen.

 

Pros: This countertop dish rack holds plenty of space for your dishes with two tiers. It comes with a water tray to prevent annoying countertop flooding, and it has a separate compartment for knives, avoiding potential injuries. It is designed with an H-shaped stainless-steel frame with square tubing so it can remain stable on any surface.

Cons: The bottom rack is a bit wobbly.

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a functional countertop dish rack that’s easy to use, this may be the one for you. It’s not only easy to use, but it’s also easy to assemble.

 

Pros: We love this bottle-friendly dish rack because it takes up less space with its upright design so that you can place it under the cabinet or in the corner of your kitchen counter. There are nine hooks to hang your bottles, lids, and sippy cups. The top compartment and drain tray are removable for cleaning.

Cons: Unless you customize it, it does not mount to your wall.

Bottom Line: This tidy dish rack for bottles utilizes your vertical space, saving tons of room on your countertop. This simple solution keeps your baby bottles and drink accessories organized and clean.

 

Pros: This dish rack is not like any other. It can also be used as a veggie washing rack, a trivet, and an added prep space. It has silicone edges so it won’t slip out of place and rolls up tight for easy storage. It is made of BPA-free silicone and stainless steel that is resistant to rust and will be sturdy for all your food prep and dish-drying needs.

Cons: Without proper drying, the rods may rust.

Bottom Line: If you have limited space, this roll-up dish rack may be the perfect space-saver. It takes up exactly zero counter space and can handle much weight.

 

Pros: This wall-mounted dish rack is surprisingly easy to put together and mount, even with its three tiers. It’s incredibly sturdy and made with stainless steel that’s resistant to scratches and rust. Each tier is detachable and height-adjustable to your liking. You can install this rack in two ways: nail-free with glue or screws.

Cons: You need a drill to mount it properly if you don’t want to go the nail-free route.

Bottom Line: RVers and apartment-dwellers, this may be the best space-saving dish rack for you. It can be mounted to a wall or a sturdy cabinet, and the drying pads make it very easy to clean.

Final Thoughts

A space-saving dish rack can be a real lifesaver in smaller kitchens with limited storage space. Not only does it allow you to open up valuable cabinet space, but a dish rack can also help keep all your dishware organized.